2. amps-preamps
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Best Tube Preamp & SS Amp Combos

I am looking for opinions on tube preamps and SS amp combinations. I currently own the Pass X-1 and X-250 SS units. I would be looking to spend $5K - $10K on the combo new or used. I recently heard the Sim Audio W-5 SS amp with the Art Audio new Gill tube preamp and it sounded really nice. I will probably try the Art with my Pass but would like to know what other combinations to consider.

Thanks and Happy Listening.
bigkidz
14 responses Add your response
tcco42ff
3 posts
 
I have a Rotel 1090 amp and looking for an affordable tube pre-amp for it. Can anybody help please...

Speakers driven are B&W 803's
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
952 posts
 

Another vote for Supratek Syrah. I have tried two or three SS amps with her, and am pleased with the results I'm now getting with the Syrah and a Plinius SA-102. Good combo.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
I am now using a Supratek Syrah w/DNA 0.5 Rev A+ pair to biamp Vandy 3ASigs. Just got the Syrah today, but first impression is WOW. Much more transparent than the BAT VK3i, and more emotional than the CAT SL-1 Sig that I have been using recently. Anyone want to buy a pre-amp?
warnerwh
539 posts
 
Reb1208: Thanks for your response. The ARC LS 16 and Marsh A400s seem to be a good combination. Just a taste of tube warmth with all the attributes of an SS amp.
jazzdude
332 posts
 
Sim Audio W-5 matches well with most tube preamps due to its high gain, high input impedance and good voltage sensitivity. You will have a more difficult time (but not impossible) mating the X-250 with a tube preamp because of its gain and input impedance.

I use the Sim Audio W-5 and Supratek Sauvignon.
glai's avatar
glai
446 posts
 
I use a Hovland HP100 with Bryston 4BSST with good results.
lpquick
16 posts
 
ARC LS25MII Preamp with Classe CA-300 Amp. Sweet, detailed and slightly warm. Excellent together with enough power for any speaker load.
libor35
26 posts
 
Lamm L1 or L2 and Lamm M1.1 or M2.1
mooncrikit's avatar
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mooncrikit
45 posts
 
Try a BAT VK-5i with the x-250. The BAT was used extensively in many a suite at C.E.S. and the Stereophile shows in the later '90s and was a mainstay in many reviewers personal reference systems. I am using this pre with Threshold SA-1 160watt pure class A monoblocks with glorious results. It would help if you mentioned your front end and speakers that you are utilizing.
reb1208
518 posts
 
List price is $2,495.
warnerwh
539 posts
 
Reb1208: how much was the ARC digital amp? Thanks
vader007
121 posts
 
ARC ref II mk II and Krell FPB series amps are awsome
together! I used to own this setup, I miss it.
jshaw1004
53 posts
 
My suggestion is Pass X-350 + ARC Reference II (MKI). You should be able to find this combo at around 8K-9K for used ones. My combo is X-600 + ARC Ref. II (MKI) and is sounding great. Pretty sweet/warm on the top-end and mid range. Bass is full of dynamic and authority.

Good luck.
reb1208
518 posts
 
I am using an ARC LS-25 mk1 with a matched quad of NOS Amperex 6dj8's. Amp is the new ARC 150.2 digital switching amplifier. Tubes+SS+Digital control = best sound I have ever had in my home. You will be hearing more about the 150.2 once the rag mags wake up. Was looking to spend much more- no need.
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